Abstract: A valve controller includes a detector detecting a shutdown command signal to shutdown an engine, a driving circuit for driving a motor, and a power source controller. The power source controller turns on the driving circuit until the predetermined period has passed since the shutdown command signal is detected. Thus, the valve controller adjusts the valve opening/closing character in such a manner as to be suitable to an engine condition.

Abstract: A target wheel/rotor pre-assembly for a camshaft phaser. A phaser rotor includes a central bore. A target wheel axial extension having a plurality of barbs is entered into the bore to fix the target wheel to the rotor, both axially and rotationally, prior to assembly of the rotor into a phaser stator during manufacture of the phaser. Simple gauge blocks or a fixture can be used to index the target wheel to the rotor such that all such rotor/wheel subassemblies are substantially identical, to a high degree of precision. Alternatively, the axial extension may be formed without barbs, the extension inserted into the rotor bore, and then the extension immobilized as by stamping of the barbs, tack welding, or the like. For another example, the axial extension may be formed as a separate intermediate barbed retainer that engages both the rotor bore and the target wheel.

Abstract: An electronic control unit increases the maximum lift amount or the working angle of an intake valve if it is determined that the operation for stopping an engine is performed. The electronic control unit stops fuel injection or ignition before increasing the maximum lift amount or the working angle.

Abstract: A lift-variable valve-operating system for an engine, includes a subsidiary cam swingably carried on a movable support shaft. A cam follower is operatively connected to an engine valve and follows the subsidiary cam. The lift amount of the engine valve is varied by displacing the movable support shaft. The subsidiary cam has an oil sump provided in an upper surface and opens upwards to store oil. The subsidiary cam is provided with an abutment face abutting against the cam follower. The abutment face includes a lift portion for turnably driving the cam follower; and a base circle portion connected to the lift portion and which retains the cam follower in a rest state. The subsidiary cam is also provided with a lubricating oil bore for guiding the oil in the oil sump to the base circle portion.

Abstract: A closure assembly for a camshaft phaser. A plug or a cap is provided with either a radially-sealing gasket seal or a face-sealing gasket seal, the seal being formed by insertion of the plug into a bore, or by installation of a cap over a neck formed in a cover plate. The closure is provided with a plurality of spaced-apart locking elements, and the plate is provided with a plurality of spaced-apart, radially extending second locking elements in the form of fingers surrounding a central opening. During assembly, the closure is mated to the plate with the first locking elements interspersed with the second locking elements. The closure is rotated to bring the locking elements into locking engagement with each other, preventing counter-rotation of the closure. No threads or torque specifications are required.

Abstract: A drive system for an internal combustion engine including an endless chain connecting a drive sprocket on a crankshaft to a driven sprocket on a camshaft. The drive system is comprised of at least one balance shaft and a torsion bar. The balance shaft has a first end for connection to the drive sprocket and a center bore. The torsion bar is located within the center bore of the balance shaft. The torsion bar has a first end for connection to the drive sprocket and a second end fixedly attached to the inner end of the center bore. The torsion bar absorbs torsional vibrations and isolates torsional vibrations due to inertia of the balance shaft caused by the crankshaft. Bearings are located between the first end of the torsion bar and the center bore of the balance shaft, to center the torsion bar within the balance shaft.

Abstract: An internal-combustion engine is equipped with a system of variable actuation of the intake valves that is controlled electronically for the purpose, of imparting on the valves different opening and closing times and different lifts according to the operating conditions of the engine. During one and the same cycle of operation of the engine, the system is able to impart on each intake valve a series of successive cycles of movements of opening and closing within the conventional cycle.

Abstract: A glow plug energization control apparatus is provided which includes a power supply working to supply electric power to a glow plug mounted in an internal combustion engine, an on-off switch working to produce a control trigger signal when turned on, and a controller including a microcomputer. The microcomputer is responsive to the control trigger signal to control supply of the electric power from the power supply to energize the glow plug. The microcomputer works to monitor an off-on interval from turning off to turning on of the on-off switch and control an amount of energization of the glow plug as a function of the off-on interval, thereby avoiding overheating of the glow plug.

Abstract: A front panel of an engine generator can have a recess including an upper area and a lower area, separated from each other by a partition. A cock operating portion and a choke operating portion can be laterally aligned with each other in the upper area, and a recoil knob can be located in the lower area. The front panel and the partition can be formed in one body of a resin material. An iron protective portion can be disposed around the partition.

Abstract: A switchable air intake system for a multicylinder internal combustion engine has at least one short and one long intake manifold whose cross sections are controllable by at least one regulating unit as a function of operating parameters (in particular the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine). The short intake manifold for a first cylinder bank row and the long intake manifold for a second cylinder bank row of the internal combustion engine, are controllable via a joint regulating unit (56, 58).

Abstract: An energy-storing starting device for an internal combustion engine includes a starter pulley and a starter spring. A spring housing at least partially houses the starter spring. A toothed housing includes a plurality of ratchet teeth. A pawl member is adapted to provide a locking engagement with at least one of the ratchet teeth of the toothed housing to thereby prevent rotation of the toothed housing in an engine starting direction. An actuator is adapted to disengage the pawl member from the toothed housing to thereby permit the toothed housing to rotate. In one example, the starting device includes engagement structure adapted to bias a portion of the pawl towards at least one of the ratchet teeth of the toothed housing automatically when the starter pulley is rotated. In addition or alternatively, the toothed housing includes an interior area that at least partially receives the spring housing.

Abstract: An idler shaft assembly for an internal combustion engine provides significant cost savings eliminates processing and assembly steps, and provides accurate orientation of components. The idler shaft assembly includes a shaft adapted for rotation about a first axis. A one-piece sprocket and gear assembly is received on the shaft. A sprocket portion of the one-piece assembly has a first diameter that cooperates with an associated drive chain that is driven by the crankshaft, and a gear portion of the one-piece assembly has a second diameter that cooperates with an associated gear of an associated balance shaft.

Abstract: To provide a power transmission system for a vehicle wherein a starter is simplified, the number of component parts is small, and a reduction in cost can be contrived. Thus, an excellent operationality at the time of starting is achieved. A power transmission system for a vehicle, including a clutch and a fluid transmission through both of which the rotational torque of a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine is transmitted to a load-side transmission mechanism, wherein the clutch and the fluid transmission are both provided on one side of the crankshaft, and a drive force of a starter is directly inputted to the other side of the crankshaft.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a relatively simple system and method to reduce fuel system pumping by automatically turning on and off servo flow to various non-needed devices or “start lockout” servos during engine start. The invention takes advantage of a fuel pressure rise provided by the fuel pump during the period from engine start until the pump speed is greater than windmill. This pressure rise is used to move a pressure activated piston in a servo shutoff valve from a normally closed position to an open position, which at higher pressures allow servo flow to the “start lockout” servos through the servo lockout valve. When the pressure is reduce, the piston return to a normally closed position due to a biasing spring closing the servo lockout valve. This opening and closing of the servo lockout valve occurs automatically with no other external input.

Abstract: In a gas fuel engine, a first air-fuel mixture having a local excess air factor ? not less than 2 is combusted (a first combustion). When a target torque is not sufficiently obtained by the first combustion, a fuel is directly injected into a combustion chamber to form a second air-fuel mixture having a local excess air factor ? less than 1.1, so that a second combustion is performed. The combustion of the air-fuel mixture is switched from the first combustion to the second combustion in one combustion stroke.

Abstract: A fuel injection system for an internal combustion engine and having a high-pressure fuel pump and a fuel injection valve for each engine cylinder. A first electrically actuated control valve controls a connection of the pump working chamber to a low-pressure region and a second electrically actuated control valve controls a connection of a control pressure chamber of the fuel injection valve to a relief region. A pressure reservoir is filled by the high-pressure fuel pump and from which fuel can be withdrawn in order to execute a fuel injection with the fuel injection valve independent of the delivery from the high-pressure fuel pump. The connection between the fuel pump and the pressure reservoir and injection valve contains a coupling device having a piston acted on at one end by the pressure prevailing in the pressure reservoir acted on at the other end by the pressure prevailing in the connection.

Abstract: Embodiments include a fuel rail and method for making the fuel rail. Embodiments of the fuel rail include an elongate tubular body with a wall defining a lumen, the elongate tubular body formed with a thermoset composite material, and a pressure port having a lumen in fluid communication with the lumen of the elongate tubular body.

Abstract: A fueling system for an internal combustion engine. The system has a voltage booster and a fuel injector. The voltage booster is operatively coupled to the injector to selectively drive the injector. A method includes determining compliance of a booster voltage with a threshold. The method further includes diagnosing fuel system error based upon the determining compliance.

Abstract: Each of paired centrifugal weights are interlockingly connected to an advancing spring, which is interlockingly connected to a temperature-sensing operation device. When cold-starting the engine, the advancing spring is maintained extensible based on a state of the temperature-sensing operation in which the temperature-sensing operation device senses a temperature to operate. This advancing spring exerts a spring force, which pushes and widens the paired centrifugal weights to an advancing position. While the engine is warm, the advancing spring is held contracted based on another state of the temperature-sensing operation device, in which the temperature-sensing operation device senses a temperature to operate, so that the spring force of the advancing spring does not act on the paired centrifugal weights. A shape memory spring composed of a compression coil spring is used for the temperature-sensing operation device.

Abstract: An advance arrangement for controlling timing of fuel delivery by a fuel pump in an engine comprises an advance piston which is movable in either an advance or a retard direction to advance or retard, respectively, the timing of fuel pump delivery, wherein a surface associated with the advance piston is exposed to fuel pressure within a main advance control chamber. The advance piston has a supply port to allow fuel to flow into the main advance control chamber and a drain port to allow fuel to flow out of the main advance control chamber. A servo piston is movable relative to the advance piston to control opening and closing of the supply port and the drain port. The advance arrangement is characterised by a restricted flow means for restricting the flow of fuel out of the main advance control chamber through the drain port when the advance piston moves in the retard direction beyond a predetermined amount.

Abstract: The invention concerns a motor vehicle fuel tank (1) comprising a fuel reserve chamber (4) further comprising a suction device supplied with fuel coming directly from a fuel filter and adapted to suck up fuel in at least a low suction point outside the chamber (4), and in delivering it into the chamber (4) at least in a high delivery point, located above the desired minimum level of fuel in the tank (4) and higher than the low suction point.

Abstract: A structure for supplying assist air to an air-fuel mixture injection valve including a device for limiting the intake air taken by a compressor, whereby a drive force of the compressor required for compressing air is reduced, and fuel efficiency is achieved. The structure includes an inlet port of the compressor and a venturi member of an air-intake pipe brought into communication via an inlet channel. The air in the air-intake pipe is regulated by the venturi member through the inlet channel by driving the compressor and is taken to the compressor. Air compressed in the compressor is supplied through a high-pressure air channel to the air introduction portion of the fuel injection valve device, where fuel injected from the fuel injection valve and high-pressure air supplied to the air introduction portion are mixed to air-fuel mixture, and the air-fuel mixture is injected by the air-fuel mixture injection valve.

Abstract: A system for controlling the mixture of an air flow and an exhaust gas flow utilizing two valves, the first valve at least partially positioned in an air intake conduit and regulating the flow of fluid through the air conduit, and the second valve positioned in an exhaust gas recirculation conduit for regulating the flow of exhaust gas. The control scheme presenting a sequential or stepwise control sequence, where the first valve is actuated over a first pressure range and the second valve is actuated over a second pressure range such that valves operate in a sequential manner.

Abstract: A spark plug connector, in particular for large engines, includes an inductive interference suppression device having a ferromagnetic core. The inductive interference suppression device also has at least one winding, preferably a coil, and an ohmic d.c. resistance of at least 20? at 20° C.

Abstract: A safe air-pressure-launched toy rocket system includes an air-pressure-launched toy rocket, a high pressure reservoir, a manual air pump connected to the reservoir and configured to enable a user to pump air into the reservoir to a high pressure, a valve connected to the reservoir and configured, when opened, to release high pressure air stored in the high pressure reservoir to the toy rocket to launch the toy rocket, and two releases configured to be operable by different hands of the user. The releases are connected to the valve in a series-open configuration, where the valve is closed only when both of the releases are operated.

Abstract: A paintball gun loading device includes a gun body, a loading member and a funnel. The loading member comprises a fixture at an upper portion thereof. The fixture comprises a circular trough with a plurality of slots along the circular trough. A clamp sleeved on the circular trough is tightened with a quick-release rod and a nut to fasten the funnel in a different size.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of producing split casted concrete blocks. The method comprises the steps of providing a production plate adapted to support one or more casted blocks. One or more of these blocks are casted on the production plate. A parting slot is formed on a top surface of each of the one or more blocks. The production plate is transported to a support surface of a block splitting machine. Each of the blocks is impacted with a pitching blade aligned with the parting slot of a respective one of the one or more casted blocks to form the split blocks on the production plate.

Abstract: A household appliance has a useful storage volume that can be closed by a door pivotally mounted around a horizontal articulation axis and also has a storage compartment. The door can be displaced in the storage compartment by a guiding system including at least one guiding element associated with the door, the guiding element being guided in a slide track associated with the appliance. To produce an ergonomically economical opening and closing movement of the door, the door is provided with at least one counterweight configuration that, during displacement of the door, exerts a balancing force on the door acting against the weight of the door.

Abstract: A structure (26) for supporting an array (22) of solar panels (24) in a solar energy collection system (20) includes a support assembly (42) formed from a rigid subassembly (44). The subassembly (44) includes an elongated truss (68), a base (46) coupled to the truss (68) for attachment to a footing (48), and posts (50) extending from a top edge of the truss (68). The structure (26) further includes torsion tubes (34), each of which is pivotally retained by one of the posts (50) to form parallel rows (32) of torsion tubes (34). A number of rigid subassemblies (44) can be interconnected to further increase the number of rows (32) of the system (20). The solar panels (24) are attached to the torsion tubes (34) to form the array (22), and a drive mechanism (38) pivots the torsion tubes (34) via a single elongated actuator and multiple torque arms (90).

Abstract: A solar tracking system has a first set of solar heat gain transducers (700) that produce respective first output signals to drive a reversible first motor (300) for changing a vertical angle of a solar collector (200); and a second set of solar heat gain transducers (700) that produce respective second output signals to drive a reversible second motor (608) for changing a horizontal angle of the solar collector (200); each of the transducers (700) having a thermistor (702) in thermal contact with a thermal mass (706); and a communications apparatus (900) receiving output voltage from solar cells (202) on the solar collector (200).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for inhalation therapy. Said device comprises an aerosol-producing device for spraying a liquid (3), preferably comprising a membrane (1), a support unit (6), an electromechanical transducer unit (7), and a connecting device (8,9) for supplying an oscillation control signal. The inventive device also comprises a control device (10) from which an oscillation control signal can be supplied to the connecting device of the aerosol-producing device, such that the aerosol-producing device sprays the liquid. Another control signal is supplied to the aerosol-producing device (1,6,7), moving the membrane (1) in oscillation in an audible frequency range, thus causing the emission of audible signals for a user.

Abstract: A pulmonary decompression device may be utilized to remove trapped air in the lung or lungs, thereby reducing the volume of diseased lung tissue. A lung reduction device may passively decompress the lung or lungs. In order for the system to be effective, an airtight seal between the parietal and visceral pleurae is required. Chemical pleurodesis is utilized for creating the seal.

Abstract: An inhaler for inhaling powdered medicament from capsules is described. Once the capsule has been placed in the capsule holder (3), the patient can press an actuating member (8), which interacts with at least one pin (9) adapted to be pushed into the capsule holder (3), causing the medicament to be released. In a preferred embodiment, the actuating member (8) is constructed as a multi-functional actuating member (8a) wherein, in a first functional position, the closure element (6) can be disengaged from the lower part (1) in order to pivot the cover (5), and wherein, in a second functional position, the mouthpiece (4) engaging with the plate (2) can be released from the plate (2) in such a way that the mouthpiece (4) can be pivoted away from the lower part (1).

Abstract: An uninterruptible D.C. battery backup power supply is designed to operate medical respiratory treatment equipment such as a machine for the treatment of sleep apnea. A power supply with D.C. backup consists of a rectifier/charger, a rechargeable battery and a D.C.-to-D.C. converter. The rectifier/charger is connected to the wall outlet providing the D.C. charging capacity as well as the capacity to provide power to the D.C.-to-D.C. converter which provides D.C. power to the equipment being protected during a momentary interruption in the A.C. commercial voltage or a prolonged power outage.

Abstract: A apparatus and method for protecting a patient's area from aerobic contamination comprising a flexible drape assembly adhered to the surrounding area being operated on. The drape assembly includes two sheet members having predetermined cooperative dimensions and joined to each other defining an internal cavity with a plurality of outlet openings through the first sheet member. The internal cavity is pressurized with clean filtered air. The apparatus also includes a suction assembly with inlet ports mounted in the proximity of the area being operated on. A non-preferential turbulence free laminar flow is achieved away from the protected exposed area.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a technique for selection of parameter configurations for a neurostimulator using neural networks. The technique may be employed by a programming device to allow a clinician to select parameter configurations, and then program an implantable neurostimulator to deliver therapy using the selected parameter configurations. The parameter configurations may include one or more of a variety of parameters, such as electrode configurations defining electrode combinations and polarities for an electrode set implanted in a patient. The electrode set may be carried by one or more implanted leads that are electrically coupled to the neurostimulator. In operation, the programming device executes a parameter configuration search algorithm to guide the clinician in the selection of parameter configurations. The search algorithm relies on a neural network that identifies potential optimum parameter configurations.

Abstract: A hair colorant device capable of separately housing two volatile hair colorant solutions. The hair colorant device has two compartments used to store, introduce and mix the hair colorant solutions. When combined the two hair colorant solutions may be applied to a person's hair.

Abstract: A method of using styling tape for body part and hair accessorizing is disclosed. The method may include cutting a self-adhesive tape into a strip or other elongate shape and stretching it to obtain at least some tension. The user may wrap the self-adhesive strip around a bundle of hair or a body part, and may press the self-adhesive strip onto itself to secure the strip or other elongate shape.

Abstract: The present invention includes various hair extension methods and related devices.

Abstract: A basic yet effective right and left two-piece sideburn shaving guide invention, comprised of adhesive paper light in tack yet strong enough to work on users face without pulling out hair. Element 1 is the grid with fifty-four different positions used adjacent with users outside corner eyelid. Element 2 is the base of invention parallel with grid for easy and fast application positioning of the sideburn design. Element 3 is a shaving guide. Right and left shaving guide pieces are mirror images of one another.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of cleaning a workpiece is disclosed. The method comprises providing a mobile flushing unit and servicing the workpiece as follows: a) connecting a flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to one end of the workpiece and connecting another flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to a second end of the workpiece; b) flowing compressed air through each hose and the workpiece; c) pumping a cleaning fluid through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; d) ceasing cleaning fluid flow, followed by purging with air to remove the cleaning fluid from the workpiece; e) pumping water through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; f) ceasing water flow, following by another purge with air to remove the water from the workpiece; and g) disconnecting each hose from the workpiece.

Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.

Abstract: A system and method for processing a wafer includes applying a process to the wafer. The process being supported by a surface tension gradient device. A result of the process is monitored. The monitored result is output.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning, rinsing and Marangoni drying substrates is provided. A line of fluid is sprayed along a substrate surface forming an air/fluid interface line, and a line of drying vapor is supplied to the interface line to achieve Marangoni drying. Thus, a large portion of the substrate is simultaneously dried. A preferred apparatus employs a tank of cleaning and/or rinsing fluid. Above the tank fluid a source of rinsing fluid directs rinsing fluid to the surface of a substrate forming a meniscus on the substrate surface as the substrate is lifted from the cleaning fluid, and a drying vapor source directs drying vapor to the meniscus. The drying vapor lowers the surface tension of the meniscus, inducing a Marangoni flow of rinsing fluid from the substrate's surface, and thereby drying the substrate. The cleaning fluid tank has a substrate receiving and cleaning portion and a substrate rinsing portion.

Abstract: A wafer cleaning apparatus with multiple wash-heads is applied in chemical and mechanical polishing process after wafer cleaning. The wafer cleaning apparatus device includes a supporting base, which supporting base comprises a driving device and at least one fluid pipe. A rotation module is also included in the wafer cleaning apparatus. The top side of the rotation module is connected with the driving device. Besides, the rotation module comprises multiple wash-heads and at least one nozzle. The bottom side of wash-head here is contacted with the surface of the wafer. By using driving device, the rotation module can be wholly driven. Also, multiple wash-heads can rotate individually along a cleaning path for cleaning wafer. The fluid was jetted from nozzle and assistant to clean wafer through fluid pipe. The prior art of single wafer wash-head is easily to reform a cleaning dead angle in wafer cleaning process.

Abstract: A circuit board processing system includes a wash tank configured to contain cleaning fluid, and a positioning subsystem configured to immerse a set of circuit boards into the wash tank. The system further includes a flow control subsystem having (i) a first set of nozzles disposed within the wash tank, (ii) a second set of nozzles disposed within the wash tank, and (iii) a controller. The controller is configured to direct the cleaning fluid through the first set of nozzles to provide a flow of the cleaning fluid in a first direction relative to the set of circuit boards. The controller is further configured to direct the cleaning fluid through a second set of nozzles to provide a flow of the cleaning fluid in a second direction relative to the set of circuit boards after providing the flow of the cleaning fluid in the first direction.

Abstract: A dishwasher includes a pump assembly which functions to chop all fluid entrained soil prior to directing fluid to upper and lower wash arms. A flow conduit leading to the upper wash arm is provided with a sampling port which directs a percentage of the fluid flow into a filter chamber having one or more fine mesh filter screens that open into the dishwasher tub basin. The filter chamber receives washing fluid through a sampling port that interconnects with the flow conduit. The filter chamber can be fluidly connected to a drain based on the position of a valve which opens when washing fluid recirculation ceases.

Abstract: An ultrasonic cleaner apparatus is disclosed which includes a support housing, a tub supported by the housing and an ultrasound and sensor transducer contacting the bottom of the cleaning tank. A fixture assembly for holding items to be cleaned is configured for insertion into the cleaning tank. The fixture assembly comprises a predetermined number of slots, which are positioned around the perimeter of a pair of end disks disposed on the fixture assembly. The slots are configured to receive the distal ends of slats or other items to be cleaned. Rotation of the fixture assembly in the cleaning solution and ultrasonic energy effectively cleans the items while the fixture assembly securely holds the items during cleaning, rinsing and drying.

Abstract: Provided is an opening device mounted on a shank of automatic umbrella including a sliding sleeve having a lower extension and a slot on the extension. The device comprises an upper trigger mechanism lockingly engaged with the extension in a closed condition of the umbrella such that pressing the trigger mechanism will disengage the trigger mechanism from the extension prior to automatically opening the umbrella, and a lower, spring biased rib tip retaining mechanism put on the shank and disposed above the handle, the rib tip retaining mechanism adapted to contain tips of ribs therein in the closed condition of the umbrella. Thus, the tips of ribs are not tangled with foreign objects or other umbrellas when the umbrella is stored in, for example, an umbrella stand.

Abstract: A walking cane having an integral item retrieval means includes an elongated hollow shaft having a J-shaped handle member at an upper end. A lever is slidably positioned immediately beneath the handle member that is operably connected to a pivotal claw on the lower end of the shaft. Lifting the lever pivots the claw against the lower end of the shaft to trap an object therebetween.